Xnipec Habanero Salsa
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
10
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Calories
12 kcal
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Course
Appetizer, Condiments
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Cuisine
Mexican
Xnipec Habanero Salsa
Description
The recipe involves finely dicing habanero peppers after removing seeds and ribs to moderate heat intensity while preserving the signature spiciness. Tomatoes and red onions provide body and sweetness, and fresh cilantro adds herbal brightness.
Lime and orange juice give the salsa a tart and slightly sweet citrus note that balances the peppers' heat. The salsa is mixed and allowed to stand for at least half an hour or overnight to let the flavors meld and the moisture release, resulting in a well-rounded, fresh-tasting condiment.
It is customary to serve Xnipec alongside Mexican dishes such as lentil tacos, Mexican street corn, or in tortilla bowls, where its heat and acidity add contrast and vibrancy.
Handling habaneros requires care; gloves are advised for sensitive skin or cuts on hands due to the peppers’ intense oils. Variations can include substituting orange juice with grapefruit or sour orange, mixing in different peppers, or adding fruit like pineapple or mango to balance the spice with sweetness.
Ingredients
- 3 habanero pepper
- 2 tomato diced, large ripe
- 1 red onion finely diced
- 3 tablespoons cilantro coriander, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- Pinch salt to serve
Instructions
- Halve the habaneros, remove the stem, pith/veins and seeds, and dice them finely (be careful and use disposable gloves if your hands are sensitive), then add to a mixing bowl.
- Add the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice and orange juice to the bowl and mix well.
- Tip: to make it easier to extract the lime juice, microwave them for 15 seconds or roll them firmly on the counter to soften them.
- Let the Xnipec stand for at least ½ hour or overnight for the flavors to combine. Season with a little salt just before serving.
Notes
- Wear disposable gloves when handling habanero peppers to protect sensitive skin from burning sensations.
- Microwaving or rolling limes before juicing makes extracting juice easier and more efficient.
- Allow the salsa to rest for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend and moisture release for balanced taste.
- Use this salsa as a topping for lentil tacos, Mexican street corn, or in tortilla bowls to add spice and brightness.
- Try variations by substituting orange juice with grapefruit or sour orange juice, or add diced pineapple or mango for a sweet contrast.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 12 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 12kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 2mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 95mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 250IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 6mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.